About Paines Plough
Ordinary Decent Criminal is a new play by Paines Plough, written by Ed Edwards and performed by Mark Thomas at TechCube 0. Set following the Strangeways Prison Riot, it follows recovering addict Frankie as he enters the world of a liberal prison experiment. None of his fellow convicts are what they seem, and in the most unexpected of places he discovers that the revolution is not dead — it is just sleeping. The play is directed by Charlotte Bennett and deals with themes of freedom, revolution, and love. Content warnings include drug use, sexual references, and scenes alluding to child abuse, self-harm, death, substance abuse, and mental illness. Haze and flashing lights are used.
Why see this show?
A new play from Paines Plough that uses the aftermath of Strangeways to ask whether revolution is truly dead — Mark Thomas brings his political performer's instincts to a character piece about unlikely hope in the prison system.
£12
Thursday 31 July - Monday 25 August 2025
11:50, 19:30
24 performances
70 mins
1 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 70 minutes.
Where is it performed?
The show is at TechCube 0, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
What is the age guidance?
The show is suitable for ages 16 and over.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets start from £12.
What kind of show is this?
It is a solo storytelling theatre piece about a recovering addict navigating a liberal prison experiment, set following the Strangeways Prison Riot.
Are there any content warnings?
Yes — the show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of violence, and strong language. It includes references to drug use, sexual content, child or familial abuse, self-harm, death and suicide, mental illness, and trauma. Haze and flashing lights are used.
About This Theatre Production
Ordinary Decent Criminal is a theatre performance at TechCube 0 during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 70 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: TechCube 0
TechCube 0 is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.
Tips for Attending
- •Check for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: £12 - £19
Age Guidance: 16+
Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, Scenes of violence, Strong language/swearing, More information References to drug use and sexual references. Includes scenes with references and allusions to; Child or familial abuse, Self-harm, Death, murder and suicide, Substance abuse, Mental illness and trauma. Haze. Flashing Lights.
Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.
Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025
Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Ordinary Decent Criminal represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
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Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API
